Dawn M. DeMarco (1958-2018)

Dawn Marie DeMarco, age 59 of Kenosha, passed away comfortably and with great poise at her home on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 after a fearless two-year battle with cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones when she passed.

Born on October 24, 1958 to the late Paul Raddatz and Jeannine Swift, Dawn was welcomed into a family of sisters that included Deedee, Janet and Cindy. A few years later, they all welcomed her first brother Michael and baby sister Michelle, who completed their bunch. It was obvious to anyone that knew Dawn how much she loved her siblings. And while being sister was a title she loved, she was also known for being a devoted daughter, a doting wife, a selfless mother, a spitfire of a waitress, a compassionate confidant, a spoiling grandmother and the family peacekeeper.

Dawn was a crafty one. She loved DIY projects for the home and in turn, loved the HGTV network. She frequently rearranged furniture and gave her walls a fresh coat of paint, always embracing fun and bright colors. She loved shopping – which explains why Christmas was one of her favorite holidays. She always made sure that there was “enough to open” and enjoyed watching the family open her thoughtful gifts. She loved the holiday classic “A Christmas Story” and looked forward to TBS’ 24-hour marathon.

Although a less than average life span, Dawn did not live an average life. She worked where she felt needed, laughed to lighten a mood, learned what she wanted to learn and loved who she wanted to love. She always embraced diversity and welcomed change. But most importantly – whether she was lending a shoulder to cry on, caring for sick loved one or cheering on her grandson at a baseball game, her passion in life was to simply to be present and help others when called upon. She was at her absolute best when she was able to make someone else feel better.

She will be sorely missed and survived by her husband of 20 years Michael DeMarco; children Jeannine (Adam) Krueger, Jeffrey (Matthew) Raddatz, Brian (Tania) DeMarco, Scott DeMarco; grandchildren, Brandon, Alexander, Riley, Brayden, Rosalee Grace; three great grandchildren; five siblings and many other close relatives & friends.

A sincere thank you goes out to the staffs of both the Aurora Medical Center-ICU and Cancer Clinic for the professional & thoughtful care that was provided to Dawn and the family. She always felt comfortable in their care – and for that, we’re grateful.

While tears are natural at a time like this, Dawn would want to be honored by remembering happier times. So, we wipe our tears and welcome friends & family to gather to celebrate her life on Thursday, October 18 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Kenosha Public Museum, Mezzanine level, 5500 1st Ave, in Kenosha. Light appetizers and beverages (of course) will be provided.